Written by Peter David
Art by J. Calafiore; Peter Palmiotti; Mark McKenna; Tom McCraw; & Albert De Guzman
Cover Art by Ron Lim; Chris Ivy; & Patrick Martin
SUMMARY:
Entitled “Line of Succession,” this standard-length issue was published by DC Comics for June 1998. The vengeful sea god, Triton, chillingly murders a pivotal member of Aquaman’s family. Telepathically alerted by this death, Tempest/Garth and Aquaman/Orin both sense that something ominous is afoot. Amidst political strife in Poseidonis, Triton’s tidal wave attack upon the besieged domed city brings Aquaman and an undersea army to its defense. Aquaman has no answer for Triton’s monstrous ace-in-the-hole. Even with Tempest & Dolphin also standing up to Triton, a shocking cliffhanger twist comes into play.
REVIEW:
As the rugged underwater warrior-king, Aquaman is terrific in this issue. Writer Peter David is on his game, as he makes Triton’s rampage a plausible threat against Aquaman and his allies. His depictions of the supporting cast, including Vulko, Garth, and Dolphin, are also well-played, in terms of testing loyalty to ‘The King of the Seas.’ Include a stellar cover image, the art squad’s visuals are well above-average. Aquaman # 45 is a minor gem worth re-discovery.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
“Ebb & Flow” is a two-page letters-and-answers column. Included is a brief written teaser re: the next issue.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars
